Arnel Pineda marked his 57th birthday on September 5 with an Instagram post expressing gratitude to Journey, his family, and fans for their supportive messages. He also addressed comparisons to the band’s former vocalist, Steve Perry.

“To the fans, thank you for having me in your life despite the fact that I’m not him and it’s just hard to let go of someone who’s as beautiful as Mr. Steve Perry, the one and only, boys,” Pineda stated in his video.

He added, “I love him, to tell you honestly. So, I have no ill feelings to the people who still can’t accept me being with the band. Anyway. It’s okay. Just peace and peace and peace. Any peace out there, alright?”

Steve Perry left Journey following a brief hiatus due to a degenerative bone condition and hip-replacement surgery. Steve Augeri took over as lead vocalist the following year, only to be succeeded by Jeff Scott Soto in 2006.

Arnel Pineda joined Journey in 2007 and has been with the band ever since. During his tenure, Journey has released three studio albums, with the most recent, ‘Freedom,’ debuting in 2022.

Despite Pineda’s contributions, some fans have felt he cannot replace Perry, with comments suggesting Journey isn’t the same without its former frontman. Neal Schon recently responded to these remarks on social media, saying, “Yes, I know that’s why we’re selling out stadiums.”

Steve Perry reunited with Journey for their Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction in 2017. Although he made an acceptance speech, he chose not to perform, noting that he hadn’t been in the band for quite some time.

Journey is scheduled to begin their fall tour on September 6 in Blackfoot, Idaho.